Becoming an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Dealer: Steps, Opportunities, and Challenges 

The world is moving more and more towards electric cars (EVs), supported by significant investments from governments, private firms, and significant manufacturers. As this shift takes place, it presents particular difficulties while also providing dealerships with a rare chance to close the gap for their consumers. Dealerships may add value, increase sales, and save running costs and carbon emissions by displaying not only their newest inventory and pre-owned cars but also EV charging stations. The advantages of providing EV charging stations to consumers are discussed in this article, along with the steps involved in getting one for your dealership.

Why you should invest in an EV dealership?

Customer Satisfaction and Attract New Business

Installing EV charging stations at your dealership shows that you care about the environment and your customers. Customers who currently own electric cars or are thinking about getting one will value how convenient it is to have a charging station nearby while they are in the store. This act of kindness may foster loyalty and trust, which can encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations. In addition, offering EV charging stations can draw in new eco-aware clients, broadening your dealership's clientele and strengthening its standing as a progressive business.

A New Way of Making Money

Installing EV charging stations at your dealership may open up a new revenue source. In addition to your regular clients, you may also provide charging services to EV owners in the neighborhood. Hassle-free payment options, such as pay-per-use or subscription schemes, may increase revenue while advancing environmentally friendly behaviors in your community

Reduced costs and carbon footprint

Dealerships may move towards lowering operational expenses and their carbon impact by integrating EV charging stations. Making the switch to electric service cars may save gasoline costs, and funding sustainable energy sources can power the charging stations. As a result of these measures compliance with environmental standards, local governments may offer incentives or subsidies, further mitigating the cost of installation and upkeep.

Taking Advantage of Marketing and Brand Opportunities

Dealerships that aggressively promote the EV revolution present themselves as forward-thinking businesses that care about the environment. Such branding improves public perception and draws in clients that appreciate innovation and sustainability. The availability of EV charging stations may be used as a persuasive selling point in marketing and advertising efforts, separating your dealership from rivals and displaying your dedication to fostering a greener automotive industry.

This is how you install a charging station for electric vehicles as a Dealer

Determine Demand

Start by determining whether there is a need for EV charging stations near your dealership. Analyze the local EV population to find possible rivals that could provide comparable charging services.

Investigate charging options

Find the best EV charging station supplier for your dealership's requirements by comparing several options. Think about elements like network support, user interface, charging capacity, and charging speed.

Consider the cost of installation

To determine the installation costs, request estimates from a few different service providers. Add in any necessary permitting procedures, building work, and electrical modifications.

Reviewer Subsidies and Benefits

Look into regional, governmental, or municipal incentives that could lower the cost of putting up EV charging stations. To promote the development of EV infrastructure, several countries provide grants or tax incentives.

Plan Station Location

Place charging stations strategically across your dealership's grounds for easy access and exposure to consumers.

Marketing and communication

Use a variety of platforms, such as your website, social media accounts, and physical signs inside the dealership, to inform your consumers about the inclusion of EV charging stations.

Requirements for establishing an EV charging station franchise

• To properly operate the charging station and adhere to applicable laws, obtain the local certifications and permissions required.
• Provide enough parking space to support electric cars, ensuring easy access for clients.
• In order to satisfy the electrical needs of charging stations, make sure you are close to a transformer or have access to a trustworthy power source.
• To encourage eco-friendly charging choices, take into account connecting the charging station to a renewable energy source if a transformer is not readily available.
• Prepare an initial investment between 1 and 10 lakhs to pay for startup charges and the first several months of operations.
• Obtain the EV charging station franchise by meeting the requirements outlined by the business you desire to collaborate with.

Dealership Cost

Understanding the upfront costs associated with opening an EV ChargePoint franchise is crucial before going any further. The initial costs for this business endeavor normally range between Rs 1 and Rs 10 lakhs, and it has shown to be quite successful. The exact pricing will depend on a number of variables, including setup and handling fees, the market repute of the selected partnering firm, and the power output of the chargers.

For example, if you use an AC-001 3.3W Bharat-type charger, the charger alone costs about Rs. 70,000. On the other hand, if you opt for a 50 KWh charger like CHAdeMO or CCS, it could cost you Rs. 15 lakhs.

There are additional upfront charges to take into account in addition to the charging expenses. For instance, the cost of getting a new electrical connection would be approximately Rs. 7.5 lakhs, whereas the cost of doing civil work might be around Rs. 2.5 lakhs. Budget roughly Rs. 3.5 lakhs for upkeep and Rs. 6 lakhs for the land lease (the real cost of leasing the land may vary based on its size and location). In order to build an EV ChargePoint franchise successfully, it is crucial to take these expenditures into account.